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January 5, 2015
A MINI-Built Pickup Truck | MINI
MINI Paceman Adventure
A MINI-Built Pickup Truck
As you know, MINI has gradually expanded its world by offering variations beyond its conventional hatchback models, including convertibles, coupes, station wagons, and SUVs. The model announced this time is a new species exploring MINI's further possibilities.
Text by SAKURAI Kenichi
A Tough Pickup 4WD Concept
The concept model announced this time, the "MINI Paceman Adventure," is the first pickup truck specification model from MINI. It isMINI Cooper S Pacemanbased on the "ALL 4" 4WD version of the "MINI Cooper S Paceman," with its ride height raised and a cargo bed installed to customize it into a pickup truck specification. While similar pickup models existed during the Classic MINI era, this is, of course, the first pickup truck for the new generation of MINI.
This model, with its appealing practicality and styling, seems likely to be popular in North America. In reality, it is a one-off model created by young interns at BMW's factory and their instructors as part of their training. Unfortunately, there are no plans for commercial production.
The cargo area, designed in a pickup style by the interns, features a completely flat floor and fixed tailgate. The flat floor is achieved by raising the ride height and cleverly integrating the rear wheel's inner fender into the tailgate, demonstrating excellent consideration for practicality.
The cabin is a two-seater, with luggage space and tool storage provided behind the seats. Additionally, the fixed roof rack is equipped with four auxiliary lights and can also accommodate a spare tire. The rugged treatment of the interior and exterior, along with the 4WD system, perfectly suits the "Adventure" name.
MINI Paceman Adventure
A MINI-Built Pickup Truck (2)
Authentic Functionality to Match Its Appearance
The engine is a 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder twin-scroll turbo producing 135 kW (184 ps), the same as the base "MINI Cooper S Paceman ALL 4." While the suspension has been reinforced, the 4WD system is carried over as is.
It is not only suitable for trail driving on deserts and gravel roads but also offers improved off-road performance due to its short overhangs and increased ground clearance. The snorkel (air intake) installed at roof level also enables water-fording capability.
MINI has previously produced unique studies such as the "MINI Clubvan Camper," a single-person vehicle modified from a "MINI Clubvan"; the "MINI Cowley," a compact trailer house for two people; and the "MINI Countryman ALL4 Camp," which mounts a tent on the roof of a "MINI Countryman."Unique Studies.
The "MINI Paceman Adventure," introduced this time, can be seen as another playful and appealing proposal that builds upon the new MINI world. However, the fact that it achieves practicality and quality beyond a mere proposal is what makes it quintessentially MINI. The idea of having a MINI pickup truck version like this seems fun—and I'm sure I'm not the only one who thinks so.



